Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman says Apple is considering allowing iPhone and iPad users to set third-party browsers and mail apps as defaults in place of the operating system’s own Safari and Mail apps.
The technology giant is discussing whether to let users choose third-party web browser and mail applications as their default options on Apple’s mobile devices, replacing the company’s Safari browser and Mail app, according to people familiar with the matter.
The possible move comes as the Cupertino company is facing criticism over how it gives its own in-house apps a step up by featuring them in the App Store. Currently, Apple does not allow users to replace Safari and Mail, which are pre-installed as a part of iOS, with third-party apps.
The report also indicates Apple might open its HomePod speaker to third-party streaming services like Spotify. Currently, users can stream third-party music services to the HomePod via AirPlay, but they are not available directly from the speaker.
The Cupertino, California-based company also is considering loosening restrictions on third-party music apps, including its top streaming rival Spotify Technology SA, on HomePods, said the people, who asked not to be named discussing internal company deliberations.
If Apple does open the HomePod to third-party music services it could benefit the devices sales, which have lagged well-behind rivals like Amazon’s Echo lineup.